Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has launched Maldives Travel Awards 2019.
At a ceremony held at Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives resort Saturday afternoon, MATATO signed agreements with sponsors and partners for the eighth edition of the most prestigious awards in the local tourism industry. The partners include:
- Beverage Partner: Coca-Cola
- Printing partner: Print Lab
- Photography partner: Elyz
- Travel media partner: Maldives Insider
- Online media partner: Avas Online
- Official tabloid: Islandchief
- Creative technology partner: Loopcraft
- Advertising partner: Blak
- Production partner: Lix
- Strategic partner: Guesthouse Association of Maldives / Women Entrepreneurs Association
The launching event was attended by top officials from MATATO as well as industry stakeholders.
Initiated in 2012 MATATO, Maldives Travel Awards celebrate and honour the best tourism and hospitality products in the Maldives whilst fostering relationships with suppliers and local travel agents. From 20 categories in 2012, the awards have now expanded into three editions totalling 55 categories.
MATATO hosts three editions: the People’s Edition, which recognises successful pioneers and long serving individuals in the tourism industry, a Guesthouse Edition, which celebrates the outstanding performance of the up and coming guesthouse sector, and the Grand Gala, which is exclusive for winners in the categories for resorts, airlines and liveaboards.
The non-profit also combines the grand gala with the travel conference happening a day before, bringing an international audience of industry experts.